Kenya’s Deputy President, William Ruto, has convened a mega rally at the Kamukunji grounds moments after he was cleared by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to vie for the presidential election in the August 9 polls.
DP Ruto, together with leaders from the Kenya Kwanza brigade, is expected to make seven stopovers in Nairobi in a campaign to drum up support for his bottom-up movement.
His running mate, Rigathi Gachagua, has also been cleared in the announcement made public by the commission’s chairman, Wafula Chebukati, after the two presented their papers at the Bomas of Kenya.
“The application of William Ruto and his running mate to participate in the August presidential election is approved. I will now present you with a certificate of registration,” Chebukati announced.
DP William Ruto, who appeared jubilant after the announcement, applauded the IEBC for ensuring Kenyans have credible elections and asked them to remain fair in the upcoming polls.
“I’m delighted to receive the certificate that will allow me and my deputy to participate in the August polls. Mr. Chairman, we’re committed to the code of conduct we have signed… We are confident that you are up to the task and we will work with you diligently,” said Ruto, who is vying for the election on a UDA ticket.
The DP also asked media houses to remain objective while covering stories about the election.
“It is the most decent thing to do. We have raised these concerns. We also urge you (IEBC) to treat all the candidates in this race equally,” he said.
Present were ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi, Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen, Tharaka Nith Senator Kindiki Kithure, Kandara MP Alice Wahome, UDA secretary-general Veronica Maina, among other leaders.
Sam Oduor is the editor-in-chief at the Western Kenya Times who leverages the power of the Internet in telling stories that shape opinions.
